AA Ireland supports UN call for drivers to slow down

The week focuses on speed and what can be done to address it, as research has shown that speed contributes to around a third of all fatal road traffic crashes in high-income countries, and up to half in low- and middle-income countries.

Here in Ireland, analysis of garda forensic investigations into fatal crashes showed that between 2008 and 2012, 322 people died and 74 were seriously injured in collisions where excessive speed was a contributory factor. 54 people have lost their lives on roads in Ireland so far this year.

The message from UN Global Road Safety Week is to #slowdown. The faster you drive, the greater the risk of a crash and higher the possibility that the consequences will be severe. Slowing down reduces these chances and makes the roads safer for everyone. It’s also important to drive appropriately for the road and the conditions, and remember that a speed limit is not a target.

“When it comes to road safety we know that speeding is one of the most dangerous things a driver can do,” says Conor Faughnan, AA Director of Consumer Affairs. “Whether you’re a motorist, cyclist or pedestrian, we all have a shared goal in keeping our roads safe and reducing the number of fatalities we see each year

“While other road users have a role to play, motorists must take the most responsibility with regards to road safety. The goal is to reduce the number of collisions and fatalities on the road, and the driver’s right foot is one of the most important tools we have.”

Show your support for the campaign by signing the pledge and posting on social media with the hashtag #slowdown.